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Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

Great Lakes, USA

Accommodation Types

Traditional & Private Stays

  • Hotels/Motels/Inns

    Widely available, ranging from budget chains to independent boutique properties. Standard amenities often included. Book with Booking.com or IHG Hotels.

  • Resorts

    Often located near lakes or ski areas, with amenities like pools, restaurants, or golf. Expect a complete vacation experience.

  • Cabins/Cottages

    For a private or rustic feel, near lakes or in forests. Options from basic to fully equipped. A comfortable base close to nature.

  • Vacation Rentals

    Private homes, apartments, and cabins through Airbnb and Vrbo. Good for families or groups, often with kitchens for longer stays.

Specialty & Outdoor Stays

  • Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs)

    Personalized service, charming atmosphere, and often homemade breakfast. Many in historical buildings for an intimate experience.

  • Campgrounds

    Numerous state parks, national forest campgrounds, and private sites. Options include tent, RV, rustic cabins, or yurts. A popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts. For basic camping, a Coleman Sundome Tent is a common choice.

  • Unique local accommodation types

    Yurts in some State Parks for "glamping." Opportunities to stay in or near historic lighthouses, like the Big Bay Point Lighthouse B&B.

  • Camping and outdoor accommodation

    Michigan State Parks are available for camping via the Michigan DNR website. Hiawatha National Forest and Ottawa National Forest campgrounds are reservable via Recreation.gov. Reservations highly suggested for summer and fall.

Neighborhood Guide

Different areas of the Upper Peninsula offer distinct atmospheres and access to specific attractions.

Marquette

Pros
  • Most amenities and dining options
  • Active nightlife and central location
  • Excellent outdoor recreation hub
Cons
  • Can be pricier than smaller towns
  • More urban feel

Munising

Pros
  • Direct proximity to Pictured Rocks
  • Access to many waterfalls
Cons
  • Very crowded in summer
  • Accommodations fill quickly and are often higher priced

Remote Towns e.g., Copper Harbor, Grand Marais

Pros
  • Offers seclusion and wilderness experience
  • Direct access to specific outdoor activities
Cons
  • Limited services (restaurants, gas stations)
  • Requires more travel time to other major attractions

Important Considerations

Safety by Area

The Upper Peninsula generally maintains a very safe environment. Standard precautions apply in larger towns, like securing valuables.

Proximity to Attractions & Transportation

Most towns are strategically located near attractions. A rental car is practical for reaching specific trailheads or remote sites, as public transport is limited. Quieter environments are typical in rural areas and smaller towns.

Booking Strategies

Plan your accommodation booking based on the season for the best experience.

Advance Booking Recommendations by Season

  • High Season (Summer, Fall Foliage, Major Winter Events): Booking accommodations is necessary. For popular areas like Munising and Mackinac Island, book 6-12 months in advance. For other areas, 3-6 months is good.
  • Shoulder Seasons (May-Early June, Late September-October): Book 1-3 months out for better availability and prices.
  • Low Season (Winter, excluding major holiday weekends and ski resorts): More last-minute bookings are possible, with the lowest rates.

Trusted Booking Platforms and Local Reservation Systems

  • Global platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, and Hotels.com are available for hotels and motels.
  • For vacation rentals, Airbnb and Vrbo are main platforms.
  • For Michigan State Park camping and rustic cabins, use the Michigan DNR website. Recreation.gov handles National Forest campgrounds.
  • Booking directly with independent hotels or B&Bs can sometimes have special rates or flexibility.

Important Booking Details

Negotiation and Policies
  • Negotiation for walk-in rates is not common in the U.S. Prices are fixed.
  • Deposit and cancellation policies vary by property and platform. Always check before confirming.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
  • Prices are significantly higher during the high season (summer, peak fall foliage) and around major events or holidays.
  • Lowest prices are found during deep winter months, outside of ski resort areas.

Additional Tip

Book Early

Especially for popular areas and peak seasons, booking well in advance helps secure your preferred accommodation.

Read Reviews

Check recent guest reviews on booking platforms to gather information about specific properties.

Flexibility

Consider flexible booking options if your travel plans might change. Some platforms offer this feature.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are some types of accommodations that suit different traveler profiles and budgets.

Top Picks by Budget

Budget Options

For cost-effective stays.

  • Michigan State Park Campgrounds (e.g., Tahquamenon Falls State Park).
  • Budget motel chains like Super 8 or Days Inn.
  • Hostelworld lists a few budget-friendly stays, though true hostels are limited.
Mid-Range Options

Comfortable amenities at a moderate price.

  • Independent hotels (e.g., Holiday Inn Express).
  • Many local motels and various vacation rentals.
  • Some charming B&Bs.

Luxury & Family Stays

Luxury Options

Premium experiences and amenities.

  • The Landmark Inn in Marquette.
  • The Big Bay Point Lighthouse B&B in Big Bay.
  • Upscale cabins or private resort homes.
Family-Friendly Options

Well-suited for families with children.

  • Hotels with indoor pools.
  • Vacation rentals with kitchens and multiple rooms.
  • State park campgrounds with playgrounds and amenities.

Solo & Long-Stay Options

  • Solo Traveler Recommendations

    Budget motels, camping, and B&Bs work well. Hostels are rare in the Upper Peninsula.

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    Vacation rentals (Airbnb/Vrbo) are well-suited, providing kitchen facilities. Extended-stay hotels in larger towns also provide options.

Properties with Historical Significance

  • The Landmark Inn (Marquette)

    A historic hotel with elegant rooms and Lake Superior views.

  • Big Bay Point Lighthouse B&B (Big Bay)

    A working lighthouse converted into a charming bed and breakfast.

  • Local B&Bs and Renovated Buildings

    Many in Calumet or Houghton reflect the region's mining heritage.

Accommodation Comparison Table

Camping & Budget Motels

Camping is the cheapest, nature-immersive option (typically $20-$40/night), with limited amenities. Budget motels are affordable ($80-$150/night), practical for short stays, but lack character.

  • Camping: Good for budget travelers, outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Budget Motels: Good for short stays, practical base.
Mid-Range & Luxury Stays

Mid-range hotels ($150-$250/night) offer more amenities and reliability. Luxury resorts ($250-$600+/night) offer full services and premium experiences, often in scenic locations.

  • Mid-Range Hotels: Good for families, couples, general comfort.
  • Luxury Resorts: Good for special occasions, all-inclusive comfort.

Vacation Rentals & B&Bs

Vacation Rentals

Offer space, kitchen, privacy, and a local feel ($150-$400+/night). Good for families, groups, and longer stays. Booking far in advance is needed.

Bed & Breakfasts B&Bs

Provide unique charm, personalized service, and breakfast ($150-$300/night). Good for couples or those seeking a personal experience.

General Note

Prices are estimates and fluctuate by season and specific property. Always check current rates.